Similar species: The variety vulgaris is very similar but its pods are strongly appressed to the stem. Barbarea verna differs by having four to ten pairs of lobes on its basal leaves and longer pods (4.5 - 7 cm).

Flowering: mid-April to mid-July

Habitat and ecology: Introduced from Europe. An abundant weed growing in a variety of habitats, such as moist fields, roadsides, and waste places.

Occurence in the Chicago region: non-native

Notes: This weed of the spring season is often mistaken for a Brassica, which blooms later.

Etymology: Barbarea refers to St. Barbara, a patron saint of artillerymen and miners. Vulgaris means common.